More than 1,000 test their endurance at Bizz Johnson Marathon

Billed as beautiful and fast, the annual Bizz Johnson Marathon is growing in popularity.

This year, the marathon, two half-marathons and associated 5K and 10K races attracted just over 1,000 participants to test their endurance on the scenic Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail between Westwood and Susanville in northeast California. Runners came from 47 states and three foreign countries (Great Britain, New Zealand and Canada) to complete. All events were sold out, according to the promoter, Redwood Trails, Inc.

Below, a pack of marathon runners leaves the start line near the west end of the Bizz JohnsonTrail. The race begins on a forested plateau with an elevation just over 5,000 feet on a section of the trail managed by the Lassen National Forest.

By mile 19, the starting pack had thinned and many runners found themselves alone with their thoughts and the dramatic scenery. Below, a runner crosses beneath a massive railroad trestle adorned with a Lassen Land and Trails Trust banner. The runner is crossing a timeworn bridge that once carried State Highway 36 over the Susan River.

More than three hours later runners traversed a final single track section of trail, below, into the Bureau of Land Management's Hobo Camp Picnic Area on the outskirts of Susanville. Completing the grueling event was cause for jubilation, second photo below.

The event relies heavily on local volunteers, such as BLM Hobo Camp Host Anita Lindberg, below. Volunteers came from local organizations and turned out individually to staff aid stations along the course, provide communication services and to provide other assistance.